HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

Preparation Time: 2 hours (including dough rising time)

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza:

• 1 1/2 pounds shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional toppings: sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms

Instructions:

For the Dough:

1. Activate Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Rise the Dough:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Assembling the Pizza:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Prepare Deep Dish Pan:
   • Grease a 9-inch (deep-dish) round cake pan with olive oil.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Roll out the risen dough to fit the bottom and sides of the prepared pan.
4. Line the Pan:
   • Press the rolled-out dough into the pan, making sure it covers the bottom and sides.
5. Layer the Cheese and Toppings:
   • Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese, cooked Italian sausage, pizza sauce, grated Parmesan, and any optional toppings.
6. Top with More Cheese:
   • Drizzle olive oil over the top and add an additional layer of shredded mozzarella.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle dried oregano on top and serve.
9. Enjoy Your Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza!
   • Slice and enjoy this classic deep-dish pizza with its thick crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings.

Note:

• Customize the toppings to your preference for a personalized pizza experience.
• Adjust the baking time based on your oven and desired crust color. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent over-browning.